The 2016 Town of Whitby Mayor's Gala

August 26, 2016 Chloe McPherson

This past Spring, I had the pleasure of sitting on The Mayor of Whitby's Annual Fundraising Committee. I was selected to do the event's decor, with the ever-lovely backdrop of Whitby's Trafalgar Castle. The theme of the evening was "A Night Out on the Town"--we wanted guests to feel like they were walking the streets of a lively, downtown festival. Busker-style entertainment, including a flash mob by Luna Dance Company, live art, acrobats and fun photo stations, added to the night's interactive feel.

The night was a wonderful success, with funds raised going to Durham Hospice, as well as towards the revitalization of downtown Whitby. A special thank you to our local vendors Mint Floral Co. and Annie Lane Events & Decor--it's amazing to work with such talented people within our own community!

Travel Diaries - Montreal

August 22, 2016 Chloe McPherson

There's no place like home. A saying that rings very true for this home body. Don't get me wrong, I love to travel, and try my best to make it a priority. However, I am truly happiest at home with my loved ones. So this Summer, when my sister Tess and I decided we wanted to get away for a few days, we looked within our own country. Montreal, Quebec to be exact. We had both been before in years past, but were anxious to get back to this Europe-like city. We took a quick flight on Porter, booked our first ever AirBandB, and headed out for a mini vacation.

The apartment we rented was in the heart of Historic Montreal, facing the Port. It was the ideal location for all of our sight seeing, eating, shopping, etc. The building also offered a roof top patio, and courtyard, where we ate breakfast and watched the sun go down. We spent our days walking, sipping sangria, wandering in and out of stores and restaurants, and of course seeing the sights. Montreal is a city after my own heart, with a distinct appreciation of the arts, in particular good design. Every restaurant, cafe and shoppe (both large and small), are beautifully decorated with a quirky, European quality. I was in Heaven!

All in all, it really was the perfect Summer getaway, and a great reminder of how much our "home" has to offer.

Travel Diaries - Maine

October 8, 2015 Chloe McPherson

I have to admit, I was worried that my expectations were a little too high going into this trip. The photos online were too good to be true, the first-hand stories from friends sounded a little too perfect. But I can honestly say, that I was simply blown away by the beauty of Maine. Every nook and cranny, every store, every restaurant is charming beyond words.

Our four day trip started with a short flight to Boston. From there, we rented a car and drove through the city, travelling up the coast to our final destination of Kennebunkport, Maine. Along the way, we stopped in Portsmouth for lunch-seafood chowder and hot cider!-and explored the cobblestoned downtown, harbour and the many gorgeous colonial style mansions. We then continued on to Kennebunkport and checked into the historical landmark hotel, The Colony. Not enough adjectives can describe it's true beauty. A champagne toast upon arrival, and warming up by the wood-burning fireplace really set the tone for our trip. We spent our time eating (so.much.lobster), exploring the coast, oohing and awing at the unbelievable homes throughout the town, browsing the many cute shops and eateries and chatting up the friendly locals. We then switched gears and checked into a more modern, cottage-coastal hotel called The Lodge on the Cove for our final night. It was the perfect contrast. Fresh, fun decor, board games and a lively bar. We borrowed bikes to cruise along the coast, even catching a supposed glimpse of Mrs. Bush getting into her SUV at the Bush Compound. We then hit the road again to make our way back to Boston, stopping in the beach town of Oqunquit to take in one final view of the ocean. We had a giant pizza lunch at Faneuil Hall in downtown Boston and then flew home. The perfect Fall weekend getaway, with perfect company!

Feeling Rosie

October 2, 2015 Chloe McPherson

Before I sign off for my weekend adventure, check out what's making me feel rosie.